Debating abortion

Your editorial asks: ‘Do we need an abortion debate at all?’ (MoS, January 14). I certainly think we do as we have had none to date.

Of course, there has been endless discussion but mainly focused on legislating for abortion. Those opposed to this legislation have found it very difficult to have their voices heard – the Oireachtas Committee hearings being a case in point.

Witnesses and experts you referred to at this committee consisted mostly of those in favour of repeal of the amendment, and women hurt by abortion were one group refused a hearing.

Yes, indeed, let us have a proper, balanced debate, taking two things into consideration – that the vast majority of journalists and the media in general support repeal of the Eighth Amendment, and that emphasis has been sadly lacking on the vested interests involved in ensuring abortion is legalised.

You are correct in pointing out that this is the most important social issue of our time and it deserves that facts be presented in a balanced way.

Mrs Mary Stewart, Donegal town.